THE Indian Arrival Committee (IAC) is deeply saddened by the deaths of Dr. Dale Bisnauth and Pandit Reepu Daman Persaud, who died on Thursday, April 04 and Sunday, April 07, respectively.

The IAC in a press release stated that it has always recognised the selfless contribution Pt. Persaud has made towards the development of Guyana in the fields of politics, religion and culture and also his fearless struggles for freedom and democracy which today are hallmarks of a grateful nation.
The IAC is also cognisant that not only did Pt. Persaud gave over four decades of his life in service to Guyana as a Member of Parliament, during which time he also served as Minister of Agriculture and Parliamentary Affairs, but he has been steadfastly committed to the preservation and development of the rich culture brought to these shores by Indian ancestors in 1838.
The IAC said further it believes that given the many challenges today, the loss of Pt. Persaud is a tremendous blow to the efforts to preserve and develop the Indian culture, and with his death, Guyana has lost an icon, a stalwart and a patriot.
In the release also, the IAC noted that it recognises the immense contributions made by Dr. Bisnauth in the fields of education and religion, and his service to his country in the capacities of Minister of Education and Labour.
As a historian and a writer, Dr. Bisnauth provided pertinent information which has aided in the understanding of aspects of the nation’s history and which will remain over time as a reference for future generations, the release added.
It is with a sense of profound sadness that as Guyanese, especially those of Indian ancestry, prepare to observe the 175th anniversary of Indian arrival next month, both Pt. Persaud and Dr. Bisnauth would not be present for this momentous occasion. They will be missed, the IAC noted.
The IAC, in conclusion, extended   sincere condolences to the relatives, friends and colleagues of Pt. Persaud and Dr. Bisnauth in this time of sorrow, adding respectfully, “May their souls rest in eternal peace.”